Cricket is a game filled with rare moments, but some incidents remain almost unbelievable even decades later. One such extraordinary feat belongs to an Australian batsman who once scored five runs off a single delivery without hitting a boundary and without the help of overthrows. The moment still stands out as one of the most unusual records in cricket history.
A rare moment in cricket history
Scoring five runs from one ball is itself uncommon. In most cases, it happens due to misfields or overthrows. However, this incident was different. It involved pure speed, sharp running, and perfect awareness between the wickets. The batsman achieved all five runs simply by running, making it a truly exceptional effort.
Steve Waugh’s unforgettable Ashes feat
The player behind this remarkable achievement was none other than former Australian captain Steve Waugh. The incident occurred during an Ashes Test match against England at the WACA Ground in Perth, one of the biggest and fastest grounds in world cricket.
During the match, Steve Waugh flicked a full-length delivery towards the square-leg region. England fielder John Crawley managed to chase the ball and stop it before it reached the boundary. However, while the fielder was busy retrieving the ball, Waugh and his batting partner displayed incredible urgency and coordination.
Speed, awareness, and a massive ground
Thanks to the large outfield at the WACA and the absence of a boundary rope at the time, Steve Waugh kept pushing for extra runs. The Australian pair ran relentlessly between the wickets and successfully completed five runs off a single ball, without any fielder error or overthrow.
Moreover, the quick decision-making and fitness levels of the batsmen played a key role in turning an ordinary shot into a historic moment. It was a perfect example of how intelligent cricket can sometimes outperform raw power.
Why this may never happen again
In today’s game, such an incident is almost impossible. Modern cricket grounds use boundary ropes, tighter fielding standards, and quicker relay throws. As a result, batsmen rarely get the chance to attempt more than three runs unless a clear misfield occurs.
Because of these changes, Steve Waugh’s five-run effort remains a once-in-a-generation moment, reminding fans that cricket is not just about boundaries and sixes, but also about awareness, teamwork, and smart running.
Even years later, this rare achievement continues to surprise cricket lovers around the world.
